Toddler joins Mensa at age 2—but his mom says support matters more than scores
When most parents hear the word Mensa, they probably picture a room full of academics—not a toddler still in diapers. But 2-year-old Joseph Harris-Birtill just made history as the youngest person ever accepted into the high-IQ society, joining at just 2 years and 182 days old.
The British toddler began reading full books before age two. He can now count to ten in five different languages, is learning Morse code, and is developing a love for the periodic table. It's an extraordinary set of milestones—but what's even more remarkable is how grounded his parents remain.'We hope that this accomplishment can give him a sense of pride when he is older,' his mom, Rose, told Guinness World Records. 'It's a very unusual accolade—and the credit is all his.'
Related: Baby milestones by month: A parents' guide to tracking your child's development in the first year
Joseph rolled over at five weeks, spoke his first word at seven months, and was reading aloud before his second birthday. By 2¼ years old, he could read fluently for 10 minutes at a time and count forward and backward past 100.
His parents describe him as 'an exceptional little being,' but they weren't pushing for a headline—they were simply trying to keep up with a little boy whose curiosity never stopped.That humility is what's resonating with so many parents right now. Because whether your toddler is learning the alphabet or reciting scientific terms, we've all asked ourselves: Am I doing enough to support them?
Joseph's story is a reminder that being 'ahead' cognitively doesn't mean a child needs less nurturing—it often means they need more.
In fact, research shows that gifted children often experience what's known as asynchronous development—where intellectual, emotional, and social growth don't unfold at the same pace. A child may be reading fluently at age 2, but still need the emotional regulation tools of, well, a 2-year-old.
This mismatch can make early childhood extra tricky for parents to navigate. According to the Davidson Institute, gifted children are at higher risk for emotional challenges like anxiety, sensory sensitivity, or perfectionism—especially if their needs go unrecognized or unsupported in traditional environments.
That's why Rose and her husband David reached out to Mensa. Not for prestige, but for support.
'I searched online for any further support available,' Rose said, 'and saw that Mensa offers resources and membership for highly able children.'
Social media can make it feel like you're constantly falling short. One scroll and you'll see toddlers reading chapter books, baking soufflés, or meditating. But Joseph's story isn't a reason to compare—it's a chance to reframe.
Because parenting isn't about raising prodigies. It's about raising whole people.
Some children speak early. Others run first. Some take their time to warm up to the world—and then astonish us with everything they've absorbed.
Regardless of where your child falls on the developmental curve, they deserve to be met with patience, curiosity, and love. That's the real message Joseph's story sends: not that genius is the goal, but that connection is.
If you've ever wondered whether your child is unusually advanced or simply curious, you're not alone. You don't need to test them early or push them academically—but if you're noticing behaviors that feel intense or out of sync with peers, it may be worth exploring gifted development resources.
Organizations like:
SENG (Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted)
The Davidson Institute
Mensa's gifted youth program
…offer tools to help parents understand the whole child—not just their test scores.
And whether your child is speaking in paragraphs or still finding their first words, they deserve the same thing: to be supported for who they are, not just what they can do.
Traditional school systems often struggle to support kids who don't fit the average mold—whether they need more help or more challenge. Stories like Joseph's bring attention to the need for flexibility, compassion, and individualized support.
Joseph may have made history, but it's his parents who model a deeper kind of wisdom: Trust your gut. Ask for help. Protect your child's joy, even when their brain seems years ahead.
Because at the end of the day, the most powerful thing a parent can give their child isn't a test score or an academic head start.
It's knowing that who they are—not what they achieve—is already enough.
Related: Why your parenting can't be measured by when your baby hits their milestones

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles

Time Business News
6 hours ago
- Time Business News
Unknown London Clothing: A Combination of Coziness and Style
Unknown London is a stunning example of flair and inventiveness in the ever changing fashion industry, where trends change with the seasons and the distinction between luxury and streetwear becomes more hazy. This company has effectively established a place for itself and developed a distinctive style that appeals to a wide range of consumers by fusing the edginess of urban streetwear with the sophistication of luxury design. In the fashion sector, Our Unknown London Clothing has established a reputation for providing a relaxed and carefree style that suits a wide variety of people. Like Unknown Lodon Coats, Unknown London was founded with the intention of pushing the boundaries of fashion. The essential hoodie firm was founded in the vibrant streetwear culture, which places a great importance on individuality and self-expression. It started with the intention of creating clothing that was both stylish and eye-catching. By drawing inspiration from the streets of major fashion towns, the founders sought to capture the authentic energy and vigor of metropolitan life in their creations. Unknown London: Who Owns It? In answer to a demand in their area and a gap in the market for cheaply cost, high-end clothes, college friends Callum Vineer and Joe Granger founded the Unknown London-based firm in late 2015. The company's goal is to document styles that Vineer and Granger would wish to wear on a regular basis while also showcasing UK culture. The Basement began as an online streetwear collective and has since grown to encompass both an online and physical store. Through active interaction and eagerly anticipated physical releases, the brand amassed a devoted following of streetwear lovers after rapidly gaining notoriety on social month, Unknown began a one-week tour in London, UK.. A range of reinvented England football jerseys inspired by the 2004 Three Lions home uniform has been created by London-based streetwear brand Unknown and fellow British streetwear brand Heaven Can Wait in anticipation of the World Cup in Qatar. An loose-fitting zip-up tracksuit from Heaven Can Wait and Unknown London Clothing is now part of the outfit, along with a number of football-themed accessories like pint glasses, kit bags, and red and yellow cards. In honor of the World Cup and the release of their most recent collection, Unknown and Heaven Can Wait are holding a pop-up at London's Shoreditch Highstreet Euro Car will be an official shop trailer at the event where attendees may purchase the company's latest styles. The trailer's design was inspired by the trucks that deliver football jerseys to fans every season. Quickly, TyY X Unknown x TyY Unknown London and A$AP TyY worked together to create a capsule collection. Following their successful pop-ups in Amsterdam and London, the partnership with the A$AP Mob member shows the potential for success and advantages of global connections. In addition to a black and blue variant, white and purple tracksuits pay homage to the early Drama Call A$AP MOB allusion known as 'Purple swag.' The line retails for between £50 and £80 and is available for purchase on their website. The MOB has had an amazing year as its members—including A$AP Rocky, who recently signed a contract with Under Armour—continue to try new things in the fashion industry. When creating their garments, they were extremely meticulous and careful. The company is nonetheless dedicated to excellence even if it doesn't reveal the location of its production apparel is produced in the same Chinese factory that produces Yeezy, A-Cold-Wall, and many more well-known brands. The company creates high-quality goods and has a reliable production capability.. Unknown London Clothing spokeswoman Vineer claims that the company's manufacturing quality is currently A1. Because of its collaboration with the Chinese company, Unknown has been able to provide its clients high-quality products. Fabric and print quality are very important to unknown apparel. Because of its commitment to quality, the brand chooses materials that provide comfort and durability. IIt is reasonable to presume that unknown apparel will endure regardless of how frequently you wear it. Prints from Unknown London Clothing typically offer a distinctive and alluring vibe.. A wide range of tastes and aesthetics are catered to by its intricate yet subtle designs. Unknown Lonon provides a variety of options, such as the Unknown London Tracksuit, depending on your taste for something showy or more understated. The Unknown London Hoodie is distinguished by its delicate design and clean lines. It is ideal for layering because it frequently draws attention to a traditional outline with a loose fit.. Premium materials are used by Unknown London Clothing to create the hoodie's supple, breathable texture, which provides comfort and warmth. Polyester and cotton are commonly mixed together. The brand's symbol, which is typically shown on the front or sleeve, and the expertly stitched design both demonstrate the attention to detail. .The range of colors and designs offered by the Unknown London Joggers is among their most outstanding features.A major factor in the Unknown London Hoodie's allure is its adaptability. For a more laid-back style, pair it with jeans; for a dressier look, pair it with pants. Unknown London Clothing, a London-based company, and UK drill star Unknown T are featured in the brand's latest Spring/Summer 2024 campaign.. One of the biggest success stories in the nation is Unknown London T-Shirt, who left the comforts of UK rap to pursue a career in fashion. Renowned for his distinctive appearance and signature eyewear, the Homerton rapper has also secured positions with Calvin Klein x Palace and Places+Faces. An obscure London brand has elevated the T-shirt to a new level. These T-shirts give your outfit a little of edge because you don't want it to be too plain. Unknown London T-shirts are of outstanding quality and feature eye-catching artwork. Unknown London Clothing Brand gives all you need if you prefer simple, monochromatic designs. In the meanwhile, we offer a large selection of vibrant and striking patterns. Because of their striking patterns and vivid graphics, people will notice these T-shirts wherever you wear them. You may easily display your unique style thanks to these T-shirts' vivid colors and designs. The hoodie is perfect for people who require both style and comfort. This hoodie's premium fabrics guarantee that you will be warm and comfortable on casual days or in bad weather. Through creative hoodie design and printing, they provide clients a fashionable method to stand out from the crowd. Wearing the Unknown London Hoodie while you're out and about or hanging out with friends will make you stand out and appear confident. Unknown London Clothing offers distinctiveness, comfort, and and anyone who appreciate well-made clothing will find its looks appealing. Unknown London Joggers are cozy and stylish. Because of their excellent quality and well-made construction, these joggers are essential elements for any wardrobe. These joggers are ideal for creating a stylish streetwear ensemble. Notably, this product comes in a range of sizes and styles. Each type comes in solid colors and eye-catching patterns. The undiscovered clothing company offers alternatives to suit every taste, whether you prefer a tailored or loose around the home looks chic with Unknown London Joggers. This soft and breezy fabric allows you to relax and rest without sacrificing style. Coats stand out in the wide realm of fashion. Because they are so adaptable, you can wear them in a range of situations and blend casual style with comfort. Unknown London Clothing has mastered the art of making coats that are both fashionable and comfortable. In order to determine what makes Unknown London Coats special, this study examines their style, craftsmanship, and allure in the streetwear industry. Because of their versatility, unknown London sweaters are still in demand. These days, young people are drawn to coats because of their distinctive designs and fashions. It gives you the perfect streetwear look. Fashion and functionality are effortlessly combined in jackets with impeccable designs. We provide a wide range of jacket styles to suit every preference, whether you're looking for a lightweight windbreaker or a cozy and toasty parka. The Unknown London jacket's ability to provide weather protection is one of its primary features. You won't have to worry about wind, rain, or cold weather if you have these jackets. You feel more confident going outside when you're wearing a jacket. There are many different styles available in our extensive collection of shorts deals. We have something for everyone, whether you're looking for something more stylish for a night out or something cozy for everyday usage. There are numerous styles of Unknown London shorts to suit every preference and situation. Our selection of shorts, which features both current printed designs and classic denim, may appeal to everyone. You'll appear effortlessly stylish in these cozy yet stylish shorts throughout the summer. For customers looking for discounts, quick shipping is keep up with the latest trends, visit our online we provide free daily delivery and reasonable rates for Unknown London Clothing, our customers enjoy an incredible experience when they shop with us. With our anonymous internet store in London, we offer our consumers reasonable prices. Unknown London offers limited-time sales and carefully curated discounts on affordable you select expedited shipping, you may receive your things on time. When you combine cost-effectiveness with timely delivery of the things you want, you can be sure that your shopping experience will be both economical and enjoyable. TIME BUSINESS NEWS


Business of Fashion
6 hours ago
- Business of Fashion
Elizabeth Paton to Succeed Lauren Indvik as FT's Fashion Editor
Change is coming to the fashion desk at The Financial Times. Elizabeth Paton, who was most recently international styles correspondent at The New York Times, will succeed Lauren Indvik as the FT's fashion editor, starting in August. The move is something of a homecoming for Paton, who worked at the FT from 2011 to 2015 under then fashion editor Vanessa Friedman before joining Friedman at the Times. Alongside fashion weeks in London, Milan and Paris, Paton has covered topics ranging from the British royal family and the bursting of the luxury e-commerce bubble to sweatshop labour in fashion's supply chains and how fashion fits into Qatar's soft power strategy. At the FT, Paton will oversee the newspaper's fashion and style coverage, as well as curating its annual Business of Luxury Summit. 'I look forward to giving the global fashion and luxury industry scrutiny and attention with coverage that gets to the heart of what is happening and why it matters,' she said. 'I won't be afraid to publish stories that elicit strong reactions and start big conversations. I want the coverage to be more fun and more serious.' Indvik will become deputy editor of the FT's house and home section. Disclosure: The Financial Times is part of a group of investors which, together, hold a minority interest in The Business of Fashion. All investors have signed shareholders' documentation guaranteeing BoF's complete editorial independence.


UPI
13 hours ago
- UPI
Childhood trauma linked to higher risk of endometriosis in adult women
1 of 2 | Endometriosis affects one in 10 women in the United States and can cause chronic and frequently severe pelvic pain. A new study has found that women who experienced childhood traumas are at heightened risk to develop the condition as adults. Photo by cottonbro studio/ Pexels ST. PAUL, Minn., June 11 (UPI) -- A suspected link between childhood trauma and the risk of developing endometriosis in later life was strengthened Wednesday with the publication of study that showed a greater chance of the condition among women with histories of difficult childhoods. The study of hundreds of thousands of women in Sweden found those who as children experienced substance abuse, had a teenage or mentally ill parent, financial problems or a death in the family were linked to a 20% increased risk of an endometriosis diagnosis compared to women who had not been exposed. However, the risk was much greater for girls exposed more than one of those factors, rising to 60%, while those who witnessed or were subjected to violence saw more than twice the risk of developing endometriosis later in life compared to women who had not been exposed, the Swedish authors reported. The study published in the British medical journal Human Reproduction builds on earlier findings that women who experienced physical and sexual abuse as children had a 79% higher risk of developing the painful condition, which affects one in 10 reproductive-age women in the United States. Lead author Dr. Marika Rostvall, a physician and doctoral student in the Department of Global Public Health at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, told UPI the findings provide more evidence of the strong connection between mental and physical health. The findings "support previous studies in other areas of medicine suggesting that the mind and body are intimately connected and that psychologically taxing events can have biological consequences," she said in emailed comments. Endometriosis usually affects women in their 20s and 30s, and while there are a handful known risk factors such as starting menstruation early and having a lean body type, the cause remains unknown. The problems stem from the behavior of tissues known as endometrium, which under normal circumstances are found only in the inner lining of a woman's uterus. Those tissues grow to a thick, blood vessel-rich layer during the menstrual cycle to prepare for possible implantation of an embryo, and then shed the blood at the end of the cycle if there is no embryo present. But in some cases, endometrium behave abnormally and start growing outside of the uterus. When they do so, they can attach themselves to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, bladder or other parts of the body, triggering frequently severe pelvic pain as they carry out their monthly thickening function. As a result, endometriosis can cause excessive bleeding and even infertility -- which is the case for up to half of women with the condition -- as well as cysts, scar tissue and adhesions. Those in turn can trigger chronic pain, including during with sexual intercourse as well as during urination or bowel movements. The Swedish researchers began by looking at the health records of more 1.3 million women born in in the country between 1974 and 2001, eventually narrowing it down to 24,000 who were diagnosed with endometriosis. They then tapped several national registers to track their childhood experiences, looking for evidence of trauma or difficulties, including crimes such as violence and sexual abuse. The results, they said, demonstrate the importance of considering "the whole person" not just the symptoms of endometriosis. The negative physical consequences of psychological trauma can perhaps be traced to a compromised ability of the immune system to protect against the condition, or even in how the body perceives pain, Rostvall said. "I think the immune system is an interesting part of the puzzle when it comes to trying to understand why some women develop endometriosis," she said. "Chronic inflammation is a big part of the disease, and it has also been shown that women with endometriosis have a higher incidence of autoimmune disorders compared to healthy women. "There is a lot of interesting research being done in the area, and a deeper understanding of exactly how the immune system functions in relation to endometriosis could potentially help bring forward new kinds of treatment." Like some other women's health issues, the pain of endometriosis is often dismissed and sufferers have reported negative experiences with healthcare professionals, often in the form of providers "trivializing" symptoms, which can cause feelings of loneliness and alienation. This, in turn, can make obtaining a diagnosis difficult and prompt some to choose to avoid engaging with doctors altogether. A British psychological-based study from last year showed some women who suffered symptoms felt they had experienced a form of "medical gaslighting" in which they were made to doubt their own perceptions of pain. Rostvall said these kinds of experiences are especially relevant when the patients are women who come from socially and psychologically traumatic backgrounds. "A lot of women presenting with pain, especially socioeconomically disadvantaged women and women with psychiatric comorbidities, who are more likely to have experienced childhood adversity, have their pain dismissed. They then have to wait for a long time to receive a diagnosis and treatment, potentially allowing the condition to worsen," she said. "I think physicians should be aware of the complex linkage between the mind and body in general and be more open to listening to their patients' stories, take their pain seriously, and offer a thorough physical examination."